Relationship between substance use and socio-behavioral drivers of poor ART adherence among young people with HIV in Zambia

AIDS Care 2026

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Authors: Happy Zulu, Bo Wang, Joseph Mumba Zulu, J. Anitha Menon, Paul Ravi, Deogwoon Kim, Anna Bryce, Janelle P. Renterghem, Karen Kolmodin MacDonell
DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2025.2611066
Cited by: 1
References: 18

Abstract

Despite improved access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Zambia, adherence among young people with HIV (YPHIV) remains suboptimal, compromising treatment effectiveness. YPHIV face unique developmental and socio-behavioral challenges including HIV-related stigma, depression and substance use, which further undermine consistent ART adherence. Alcohol and drug use impair cognitive and emotional functioning, increasing the likelihood of disrupted medication routines. This study applied the Hierarchical Model of Medication Adherence (HMMA) to examine how individual, social and structural factors influence ART adherence among YPHIV in Zambia. A qualitative descriptive design was employed using six focus group discussions (FGDs) with 48 purposively selected participants aged 18-24 years, all reporting

Fields of Study & Subjects

HIV/AIDS Research and Interventions HIV Research and Treatment HIV/AIDS drug development and treatment

Publication details

Journal / source
AIDS Care
Publisher
Informa UK Limited
Volume
38
Issue
3
Pages
466–478
Publication date
7 January 2026
Language
EN